The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to combat illegal mining across the country, leading to the arrest of two suspected illegal miners during a joint enforcement operation at an unauthorised mining site in Osun State.
The suspects, Danladi Isa and Musa Kabiru, both in their twenties and working as casual labourers, were apprehended during the raid. Authorities said they have provided valuable information that could help investigators identify and arrest those behind the illegal operation.
The operation was carried out by officials of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development from the Ogun, Oyo and Osun State offices, working alongside security agencies. The team targeted illegal artisanal mining camps located at Ileki-Ijesa along the Ile-Ife/Ilesa Road after acting on credible intelligence.
On arrival, several suspected miners fled into nearby bushes after spotting the enforcement team, while the two suspects were arrested. Mining equipment and tools used in the illegal activities were also recovered.
During the operation, officials dismantled the miners’ operational camps and confiscated several items, including two motorcycles, pumping machines, Lister generators, washing equipment, large hose pipes, gold-trapping carpets, cutlasses and other mining tools.
The illegal mining site has since been sealed in accordance with the law.
Speaking to journalists, the Southwest Zonal Mines Officer, Mr Ajibade Ganiyu, who led the operation, said the exercise reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to enforcing the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, protecting the environment, safeguarding lives and preserving the nation’s mineral resources.
He added that the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, under the leadership of Minister Dele Alake, will continue surveillance and enforcement operations across the Southwest and other parts of the country to eliminate illegal mining and restore order to the sector.
Ganiyu reaffirmed the government’s resolve to rid the mining industry of illegal operators and criminal elements exploiting the country’s mineral wealth.
Also speaking, the Osun State Mines Officer, Mr. Wasiu Adeboye, said the raid sends a strong warning that illegal mining will no longer be tolerated, stressing that sponsors, financiers and operators of illegal mining activities will continue to face prosecution.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Mr. Dele Alake, noted that the Tinubu administration has prioritised reforms in the mining sector through stronger enforcement, improved regulations, intelligence-driven operations and community engagement.
According to the minister, the establishment of the Mining Marshals has significantly enhanced enforcement efforts, resulting in the arrest of more than 300 illegal miners and the prosecution of over 150 suspects, including foreign nationals.
He added that several illegal mining sites have also been shut down nationwide.
